Leishmania Viannia infections, which cause mucocutaneous leishmaniasis, appear to be more severe when the parasites themselves are infected with a virus (Leishmania RNA virus-1). The viruses are recognized by a particular immune receptor, TLR3. In this way, presence of the virus causes an immune response of cytokines and chemokines. Unfortunately, this immune response exacerbates the leishmaniasis infection and extends the infection. The study was performed by infecting mice with the TLR3 gene knocked out. A less severe case of leishmaniasis was observed in mice without the receptor.
This discovery may help us to devise new treatments for severe leishmaniasis that target the virus rather than the parasite. Furthermore, we may become better at identifying these interactions between parasites and viruses in other disease. Personally I think we should counter this alliance of parasites and viruses by teaming up with bears to fight them! (Note: Actually teaming up with bears will not be helpful)
http://news.wustl.edu/news/Pages/21869.aspx
-Alex
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